If you're getting ready to visit Russia for the first time, be prepared to encounter a bit of culture shock. As you probably know, Russia is absolutely massive – spanning eight time zones and encompassing more than six million square miles of land. It's impossible to see all of this country's beauty in one visit, so you might as well pick a few random things to explore and have fun doing it. With that said, here are seven interesting and random facts about Russia that every tourist should know:
1. Applying for a Russian Visa is Not Difficult
Getting a visa for Russia is a relatively simple process that can be handled in about an hour once you have the right documentation in order. There are a few options you can choose from in this regard. For example, you can get a business visa for Russia or there's also avisa for tourists in Russia.
2. There's a Museum with 3 Million Exhibits
The Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg is one of the oldest and largest museums in the world with more than three million exhibits on display. The attraction consists of six large buildings that were originally established in 1764. Even if you only spent one minute looking at each exhibit, it would take you three years to see every exhibit in the museum.
3. Moscow Has the Most Billionaires Per Capita
Did you know that Moscow has more billionaire residents than any other city in the world? According to Forbes, there are almost 80 billionaires living within the city limits of Russia's capital. Even without that statistic serving as proof, the amount of wealth present in the Third Rome is clearly evident by the number of luxury cars roaming the streets.
4. Russia Has Some of the Coolest Superstitions
Here's one you probably didn't know: some Russians believe that rubbing a dog's paw with your left hand will bring you good fortune. You may want to avoid shaking hands or hugging someone in a doorway, as this is strictly against Russian folklore. Also, if you bring someone a bouquet of flowers in Russia, make sure there are an odd number of flowers, as bouquets with even numbers are reserved for funerals. Of course, there are lots of other Russian superstitions to look into before your trip.
5. The Trans-Siberian Railway is the Longest Train Track in the World
The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes the Trans-Siberian Railway as the longest uninterrupted railroad in the world, stretching through 87 cities and crossing 16 rivers.
6. There's a Small Village with More than 50 Churches
A small village called Suzdal is only 15 square kilometres and has a population of 10,000 but has 53 churches. This is one of the best places to catch an interesting contrast between Russia's classic architecture and rural beauty.
7. Moscow's Transportation System is the Third Busiest in the World
Moscow's metropolitan transportation system is the third-busiest in the world behind only Tokyo and Seoul. Despite the fact that more than six million people ride the Moscow Metro train on a daily basis, the system runs surprisingly smoothly with short wait times between trains.
Plenty More To Learn & See in Russia
In conclusion, there's really no list of facts or tips that can prepare you for Russia. Ultimately, you'll just have to make the plunge and book yourself a nice long holiday to get to know Russia up close.